By Diagnostics World Staff
October 13, 2016 Today, Good Start Genetics launched VeriYou, its saliva-based screening test for two of the most common inherited genetic disorders: cystic fibrosis (CF) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The two-disorder test will be offered through physicians, and will serve as a complement to the multi-disorder testing the company offers.
Once a prospective parent registers/activates their kit and submits the necessary family history and consent information, a licensed physician will review and order the test if appropriate. Results are delivered securely and interactively online with educational information including the ability to address follow-up questions with physicians directly and to connect with genetic counselors.
The company also offers broad testing for CF, SMA, fragile X syndrome, sickle cell disease, familial dysautonomia, Canavan disease, Tay-Sachs disease and other disorders, as well as novel variant detection and full genetic counseling services through fertility centers.
With one in every 19 people carrying a CF or SMA mutation that could be passed onto their offspring, the nation's leading medical organization for women's health, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), recommends that all women of reproductive age be offered genetic testing for CF, while the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) recommends screening for both CF and SMA. Despite these recommendations, many couples planning to start a family remain untested due to lack of awareness or inability to access high quality, affordable testing, the company believes.
"At Good Start Genetics, we believe that genetic testing should play a more significant role in preventive care and be accessible to all who need it, not just those with the highest incomes or the broadest insurance coverage," said, Jeffrey R. Luber, President and CEO of Good Start Genetics, in a statement. "As an important step in this mission, we intend to vastly improve access to physician-supported genetic testing for more couples planning to start a family by introducing affordable, quality testing for CF and SMA. This two-disorder test will serve as a complement to the multi-disorder testing we will continue to offer through our fertility clinic relationships nationwide."
Greg Porreca, Chief Technology Officer at Good Start Genetics, added: "Our proprietary and patented methods give us the ability to rapidly deliver highly accurate results regardless of genetic target or disorder, and whether someone comes to us through a clinic or as a patient online looking for reliable and affordable genetic testing.”